Boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatus

ABSTRACT

A boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatus is provided. One aspect of the present ladder apparatus includes an elongated extension handle including a slot adjacent a lower end thereof. Another aspect of a boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatus provides a snap-on step tread which can be mounted to a dual-tubular ladder step structure. Another aspect of a boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatus employs a laterally expandable ladder step which can be retrofit onto an existing ladder. A further aspect employs clasps or hooks to attach and retain a ladder step to generally vertical ladder rails in a tool-free and fastener-free manner.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. Utility patent application Ser.No. 15/672,521, filed Aug. 9, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/447,021, filed on Jan. 17, 2017,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/373,514, filed on Aug.11, 2016, all of which are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

The disclosure relates generally to a ladder apparatus and morespecifically to a retrofit ladder apparatus for use with an existingboat or recreational vehicle ladder.

Many watercraft employ ladders to assist swimmers with exiting the wateronto the watercraft. It is common for recreational boats, such aspontoon boats or even larger V-hull boats, to have a swim platform ordeck adjacent a stern, to which is mounted a rotatable andtelescopically collapsible swim ladder. Such a ladder can be downwardlyextended in a generally vertically elongated orientation into the wateror collapsed and upwardly rotated to a stowed and generally horizontalposition on the swim platform or boat deck. Examples of suchconventional arrangements are disclosed in the following U.S. Pat. No.9,067,647 entitled “Portable Boat Ladder” which issued to Neese on Jun.30, 2015; U.S. Pat No. 7,182,175 entitled “Retractable Telescopic BoatLadder” which issued to Schmitt et al. on Feb. 27, 2007; Design 331,219entitled “Telescoping Boat Ladders” which issued to Barbour et al. onNov. 24, 1992; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0272895 to Lavoiewhich was published on Dec. 7, 2006, all of which are incorporated byreference herein.

An additional concern is that most traditional boat ladders have nohandle or too short a vertically elongated rail. This makes it verydifficult for a swimmer to exit the water and enter the boat.Furthermore, the few traditional ladders with extended handles areeither poorly positioned, obstruct easy stowage of the upwardly rotatedladder, or are overly complicated and expensive due to hydraulicallypowered actuators. An example of such a hydraulically powered handle isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,789,648 entitled “Retractable LadderAssembly” which issued to Cook on Sep. 14, 2004, which is incorporatedby reference herein.

Conventional boat ladders also suffer from uncomfortable or difficult toaccess ladder steps. There are three typical conventional stepconstructions. First, many boat ladders employ dual parallel tubes,defining a generally horizontal plane therebetween, for each step. Insome instances, a polymeric tread, having a generally T or hourglasscross-sectional shape, is snapped between the pair of tubes to provide agrooved tread surface with an inboard-outboard width less than that ofthe collective tubes. Also, some traditional polymeric treads have aC-shape with an entirely hollow center, for mounting around thecollective tops of and spanning between the dual tubes. Second, singlepiece rigid polymeric steps are screwed or riveted to the verticalrails. Third, single tubes are welded to or otherwise fastened betweenthe vertical rails with an upper surface of each tube step optionallybeing flattened and sometimes encapsulated within a similarly shapedpolymeric cover. Nevertheless, these conventional steps do not provideadequate inboard-outboard width for proper foot gripping, are too closeto the boat hull for easy foot access, are slippery when wet, and/or areuncomfortable on the swimmer's bare feet.

Traditional boat ladder constructions typically have too few steps,especially below the water surface. The more steps provided, the easierit is for a swimmer to use the ladder without requiring undue upper bodyexertion. However, the more steps presented, the more difficult it isfor the boat manufacturer to create a retracted stowage space,especially when the ladders are rotated about an attachment mountingbracket on a swim deck. Moreover, elongating conventional ladders and/orthose with larger steps create weight concerns which make it moredifficult for a user to upwardly rotate and stow the ladder.

Many of the preceding concerns are also presented with ladders attachedto wheeled recreational vehicles (“RV”), even where some of thesetraditional RV ladders are stationarily and not rotatably mounted. Thegeneral term “recreational vehicle” is used herein to include a personor cargo carrying watercraft such as small or large boats or ships forany use, and wheeled recreational vehicles such as campers, fifth wheeltrailers or motor homes within which a person can sleep in a proneposition.

In accordance with the present invention, a boat or recreational vehicleladder apparatus is provided. One aspect of the present ladder apparatusincludes an elongated extension handle including a slot adjacent a lowerend thereof. In another aspect, a ladder extension handle is providedwith a flotation structure. A further aspect allows an elongatedextension handle to be attached within a boat-mounted pivoting rail ofan existing ladder, in a retrofit, tool-free and fastener-free manner,such that the extension handle can be easily manually removed for ladderstowage. An offset bend is provided between upstanding sections of aremovable extension handle for another aspect of the ladder apparatus.

The extension handle of the present ladder apparatus advantageouslyachieves better leverage for a swimmer climbing up the top steps of theladder and pulling his or her body forward into the boat. Moreover, thepresent extension handle is quickly and easily insertable and removablefrom an existing ladder rail to promote quick stowage yet be sturdy dueto its insertion below the existing rail-to-bracket pivot. The offsetbend option further allows for larger people to enter the boat through alarger width provided by a pair of the extension handles being spacedapart greater than the lower ladder rails.

Another aspect of a boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatusprovides a snap-on step tread which can be mounted to a dual-tubularladder step structure. Another aspect of a ladder step allows fortool-free and fastener-free installation of a wider step onto a smallerwidth existing ladder step in a retrofit manner. This advantageouslyprovides a larger and more comfortable step tread area for a user'sfoot. In a further aspect, a snap-on polymeric tread is provided with anangle of at least 5°, and more preferably at least 10°, above a planethrough an existing step with an apex of the angle outboard of the step;this advantageously allows for easier user foot access and improvedergonomics when the user is exiting the water.

Another aspect of a boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatusemploys a laterally expandable ladder step which can be retrofit onto anexisting ladder. A further aspect employs clasps or hooks to attach andretain a ladder step to generally vertical ladder rails in a tool-freeand fastener-free manner. In another aspect, a ladder step is laterallytelescopic.

The present step advantageously provides a larger step surface.Moreover, the present step allows for adjustment between differentlyspaced apart existing ladder rails and/or to attach to differentdiameter rails, especially when employed with differing diametertelescopic rail sections. Another advantage is that the present step canbe quickly removed from the ladder rails for stowage.

Another aspect of a boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatusemploys a hook between a retrofit supplemental ladder for placement uponan existing ladder. In a further aspect, a hook extends from an inboardedge of a foot tread surface of a step. An additional aspect provides ahook extending from each step in at least two different telescopicsections of a retrofit ladder. Yet another aspect employs an adjustablelength standoff between a ladder and a boat surface. The present ladderapparatus is advantageous over conventional devices in that the presentladder apparatus provides an additional quantity of steps to alloweasier use thereof while also being easily removable for stowage of boththe retrofit ladder and the existing ladder. Further advantages of thepresent invention will become apparent from the following descriptionand appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary perspective view showing a boat employing aladder apparatus of the present invention, in a stowed position;

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view showing the boat employing theladder apparatus, in a functional and generally vertically orientedposition;

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a firstembodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 4 is a top elevational view showing the first embodiment extensionhandle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a top elevational view showing a second embodiment of theextension handles employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view showing the first embodimenthandle extensions employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view, taken within circle 7 of FIG. 3,showing a coupling end employed with the first, second and thirdembodiment extension handles of the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of the extensionhandle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a first embodiment of asnap-on step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view, from an opposite direction to that ofFIG. 9, showing the first embodiment step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 11 is an end elevational view showing the first embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 12 is an end elevational view, taken opposite that of FIG. 11,showing the first embodiment step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 13 is a top elevational view showing the first embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 14 is a bottom elevational view showing the first embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a second embodiment of a snap-onstep employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 16 is an end elevational view showing the second embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 17 is an end elevational view, taken opposite to that of FIG. 16,showing the second embodiment step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 18 is a top elevational view showing the second embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 19 is a bottom elevational view showing the second embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 20 is a fragmentary perspective view showing the boat employing aladder apparatus with a first embodiment of an expandable retrofit step,in a functional position;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view showing the first embodiment expandablestep employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view showing the first embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 21,showing the first embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 24-24 of FIG. 21,showing the first embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view, similar to that of FIG. 24, showingan alternate embodiment of an expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 26 is a side elevational view showing the first embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, in a partiallyinstalled orientation;

FIG. 27 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a secondembodiment of an expandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 28-28 of FIG. 27,showing the second embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view showing a third embodiment of anexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view showing the third embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 29,showing the third embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of anexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view, taken opposite that of FIG. 32, showingthe fourth embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view showing alternating beams of the fourthembodiment expandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 32,showing the fourth embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view showing a fifth embodiment of anexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 37 is a sixth embodiment of an expandable step employed with theladder apparatus;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 38-38 of FIG. 37,showing the sixth embodiment expandable step employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of a ladderapparatus employing a telescopic retrofit supplemental ladder mounted toan existing original telescopic ladder;

FIG. 40 is a diagrammatic side view showing the first embodimenttelescopic retrofit ladder and the existing telescopic ladder employedwith the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 41 is a side elevational view showing a second embodiment of aladder apparatus employing a telescopic retrofit supplemental laddermounted to an existing original telescopic ladder;

FIG. 42 is a rear elevational view showing the second embodimenttelescopic retrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 43 is a rear elevational view showing the second embodimenttelescopic retrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus, in acollapsed position;

FIG. 44 is a partially fragmented side elevational view showing a clampemployed with any of the embodiments of the telescopic retrofit ladderemployed with the ladder apparatus, in a clamped orientation;

FIG. 45 is a partially fragmentary side elevational view showing theclamp of the telescopic retrofit ladder employed with the ladderapparatus, in an unclamped orientation;

FIG. 46 is a bottom perspective view showing the clamp of the telescopicretrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus, in the clampedorientation;

FIG. 47 is a partially exploded perspective view showing a thirdembodiment retrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 48 is a diagrammatic side view showing the third embodimentretrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 49 is a diagrammatic top view showing an adjustable connection fora standoff employed with any of the ladders of the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 50 is a side elevational view showing a fourth embodiment of atelescopic retrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus, and anextension handle is shown in a stowed orientation;

FIG. 51 is a rear elevational view showing a fifth embodiment of atelescopic retrofit ladder employed with the ladder apparatus, shown ina collapsed orientation;

FIG. 52 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of anexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 52 embodiment expandablestep employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view showing a cover employed with any of thestep embodiments of the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 55-55 of FIG. 53,showing the expandable step and cover employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 56 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of an extensionhandle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 57 is a rear elevational view showing the FIG. 56 embodimentemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 58 is a side elevational view showing the FIG. 56 embodimentemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 59 is an enlarged and fragmentary perspective view showing the FIG.56 embodiment employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of anexpandable step employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 61 is an exploded perspective view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 62 is a bottom perspective view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, shown in acontracted position;

FIG. 63 is a bottom perspective view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, shown in an expandedposition;

FIG. 64 is a top elevational view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, shown in thecontracted position;

FIG. 65 is a top elevational view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, shown in theexpanded position;

FIG. 66 is a side elevational view showing the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 67 is a top elevational view showing a tread variation of the FIG.60 embodiment expandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 68 is a perspective cross-sectional view, taken along lines 68-68of FIG. 67, showing the tread variation of the FIG. 60 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 69 is a perspective view showing another embodiment expandable stepemployed with a ladder apparatus, illustrating a left side clamp closedand a right side clamp open;

FIG. 70 is a top elevational view showing the FIG. 69 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, illustrating theleft side clamp closed and the right side clamp open;

FIG. 71 is a perspective view, taken opposite that of FIG. 69, showingthe expandable step embodiment employed with the ladder apparatus,illustrating the left side clamp closed and the right side clamp open;

FIG. 72 is bottom perspective view showing the FIG. 69 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus, illustrating theleft side clamp open and the right side clamp closed;

FIG. 73 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of anexpandable step employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 74 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 73 embodiment expandablestep employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 75 is a bottom perspective view showing the FIG. 73 embodimentexpandable step employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 76 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 73 embodiment expandablestep employed with the ladder apparatus illustrated in an openly pivotedposition;

FIG. 77 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 73 embodiment expandablestep employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 78 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a snap-onstep employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 79 is an end-elevational view showing the FIG. 78 embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 80 is a rear elevational view showing the FIG. 78 embodiment stepemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 81 is a perspective view showing another embodiment extensionhandle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 82 is a rear elevational view showing the FIG. 81 embodimentextension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 83 is a side elevational view showing the FIG. 81 embodimentextension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 84 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 81 embodiment extensionhandle employed with the ladder apparatus, illustrating the handleremoved and a receptacle bracket in a stowed position;

FIG. 85 is a perspective view showing the receptacle bracket used withthe FIG. 81 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 86 is a rear elevational view showing the extension handle of theFIG. 81 embodiment employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 87 is a side elevational view showing the extension handle of theFIG. 81 embodiment employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 88 is a bottom elevational view showing the extension handle of theFIG. 81 embodiment employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 89 is a perspective view showing an end socket insert of the FIG.81 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 90 is a side elevational view showing the end socket insert of theFIG. 81 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 91 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 91-91 of FIG. 90,showing the end socket insert of the FIG. 81 embodiment extension handleemployed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 92 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of an extensionhandle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 93 is a side elevational view showing another embodiment of anextension handle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 94 is a perspective view showing an end socket insert of the FIG.93 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 95 is a side elevational view showing the end socket insert of theFIG. 93 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 96 is a bottom elevational view showing the end socket insert ofthe FIG. 93 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 97 is a perspective view showing an end socket insert of anotherembodiment of an extension handle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 98 is a side elevational view showing the end socket insert of theFIG. 97 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 99 is a bottom elevational view showing the end socket insert ofthe FIG. 97 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 100 is a longitudinal-sectional view, taken along line 100-100 ofFIG. 98, showing the end socket insert of the FIG. 97 embodimentextension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 101 is a longitudinal-sectional view showing another embodiment ofan extension handle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 102 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 102-102 of FIG.101, showing the FIG. 101 embodiment extension handle employed with theladder apparatus;

FIG. 103 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of anextension handle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 104 is a side elevational view showing the FIG. 103 embodimentextension handle employed with the ladder apparatus;

FIG. 105 is a side elevational view, opposite that of FIG. 104, showingthe FIG. 103 embodiment extension handle employed with the ladderapparatus;

FIG. 106 is a fragmentary perspective view showing another embodiment ofan extension handle employed with a ladder apparatus;

FIG. 107 is a perspective view showing the FIG. 106 embodiment extensionhandle employed with the ladder apparatus; and

FIG. 108 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 108-108 of FIG.107, showing the FIG. 106 embodiment extension handle employed with theladder apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a recreational vehicle boat 61 includes ahull 63 and upper generally horizontal surfaces 65 and 67, forming partof a deck and swim platform, respectively. A ladder apparatus 69 is usedto allow swimmers to climb out of the water and into boat 61. For all ofthe embodiments disclosed herein, ladder apparatus 69 includes apreexisting or original ladder 71 which has multiple tubular rails 73 onboth the left and right sides which are telescopically extendable to agenerally vertically elongated and functional orientation (shown in FIG.2), to a collapsed and inboard-rotated generally horizontal orientation(shown in FIG. 1). Original tubular step structures 75 constitutepreexisting steps between each pair of original rail sections 73 and arewelded thereto. Furthermore, mounting brackets 79 are bolted, riveted orotherwise attached to horizontal surface 67 of boat 61. A bolt or otherpivot pin 81 laterally extends through a center of each upper rail 73and pivotably secures an upper portion of the upper rail 73 to theassociated mounting bracket 79. An end cap is removed to expose a hollowinternal opening 83 in each upper end of existing rail 73.

Ladder apparatus 69 additionally includes at least one and preferablytwo extension handles 85, as can be viewed in FIGS. 1-8. Each extensionhandle 85 is a hollow tubular member preferably made of aluminum orstainless steel, but alternately could be extruded from a polymericmaterial. A coupling lower end section 87 of each extension handle 85has a pair of longitudinally elongated slots 89 openly accessible to itslower end 91. The slots are laterally aligned with and parallel to eachother for each handle 85. An outer diameter of each lower couplingsection 87 is slightly less than an inner diameter of the correspondingrail section 73 such that coupling end 87 can be linearly slid into thecorresponding rail section 73. When inserted, pivot 81 is receivedwithin slots 89 such that at least three inches, and more preferably atleast seven inches, of each slot 89 can be slid downwardly past pivot 81when fully installed. Pivot 81 deters extension handle 85 from rotatingabout its longitudinal axis and, when taken in combination with thesignificant length of extension handle 85 that is inserted into rail 73,extension handle 85 is rigidly mounted to the existing ladder rail. Itis noteworthy that extension handle 85 is inserted and removed from thepreexisting ladder 71 in a manual, tool-free and fastener-free manner.Existing ladder 71 can be collapsed and rotated about its pivots 81 whenstowed, after extension handles 85 are removed therefrom for separatestowage.

Furthermore, floatation structures are incorporated into each extensionhandle 85. Two different types of floatation structures are optionallyincluded. A first is defined within an upper section 93 of eachextension handle between a capped distal end 95 and an internal foam orother polymeric plug 97 inserted therein above slots 89. This providesan internal air pocket. A second floatation structure is an annular foamcylinder 99 which has an internal through-bore 101. Upper section 93 isslid into through-bore 101 of foam cylinder 99 in a snuggly fittingmanner. Either or both of the aforementioned floatation structures maybe employed depending on the material used for each extension handle tocreate water floatation thereof in case the user inadvertently drops theextension handle overboard.

Different configurations of the present extension handle 85 areemployed. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates a longitudinally straightconfiguration where upper section 93 and lower coupling section 87 arevertically coaxial in its upstanding and lateral directions. This isbeneficial as being inexpensive to manufacture and easy to stow. Theconfigurations illustrated in FIGS. 2-4 and 6 employ a bend 103 in amiddle section of each extension handle 85. This bend 103 is laterallyoffset along a plane defined by vertical centerlines of rails 73outboard (in other words, rearward for a stern ladder) of the adjacentboat surface whether it be the rearmost boat surface 105 of the swimplatform, deck or stern. This laterally offset and parallel orientationof the upper section relative to the lower coupling section of eachextension handle 85 allows for greater width between the pair ofextension handles as compared to the existing rails 73 thereby making iteasier for larger adults to pass between the extension handles whenentering the boat.

Moreover, the configuration of FIG. 5 provides both an inboard andlaterally wider three-dimension bend 103 between upper section 93 andlower coupling section 87 of each extension handle 85. This embodimentallows for improved leverage against the extension handles 85 to allowthe swimmer to pull himself or herself more easily inboard into theboat. The aforementioned slots, floatation structure and bends areinterchangeably useable for all of these preceding and following ladderconfigurations, they may also be employed with ladders that are nottelescopically extendable, and that are not pivotable relative to theboat, although certain advantages may not be achieved. All of thepresent extension handles are also usable with preexisting original orwheeled recreational vehicle ladders to access roof storage.Furthermore, the bent configurations are also aesthetically pleasing.

Reference should now be made to FIGS. 9-14 which illustrate a firstembodiment of a snap-in step 77 of the present ladder apparatus 69. Step77 includes an upper tread wall 121 upon which are multiple laterallyelongated grooves 123 and ridges 125 defining a slip-resistant treadpattern on an upper surface thereof for gripping by the swimmer's feetwhen using the preexisting boat-mounted ladder 71. Step 77 furtherincludes a pair of tube-receiving formations or receptacles 127 and 129each being defined by a pair of flexible projections 131, 133, 135 and137. Interior cavity surfaces 139 and 141 of receptacles 129 and 127,respectively, have an arcuate and generally semi-circularcross-sectional shape, and are adapted to snap onto preexisting tubularstep structures 75 of preexisting ladder 71 in a fastener-free manner.Thus, each receptacle engages opposite sides of the corresponding tube.At least one of the projections, such as 131, is elongated longer in across-sectional view than the corresponding opposed projection, such as133.

In this embodiment, a bottom surface of receptacle 129 is positionedlower than a bottom-most surface of receptacle 127. Furthermore, a neckis located between a top of receptacle 129 and tread wall 121. Thisprovides an ergonomically desirable tilt α of at least 5° and morepreferably at least 10°, from a tangent of a middle point of upper treadsurface when it is arcuate (or a plane if flat) relative to a horizontalplane defined between laterally elongated centerlines of receptacles 129and 127. The preferred arcuate end-view nature of the upper treadsurface provides a neutral or generally horizontal planar portion uponwhich the feet contact regardless of off-vertical tilting of the ladder.Step 77 is preferably extruded from a polypropylene or TPE polymericmaterial (although other materials may be used) and is flexible to allowthe receptacles to be snapped onto a middle section of each preexistingmetal tube 75 in a retrofit manner.

The present step 77 advantageously provides a larger surface area andalso a larger inboard-outboard width W. The apex of angle α is outboardaway from the boat to achieve easier foot entry. A laterally elongatedaccess opening of receptacle 127 faces forwardly toward the boat andgenerally perpendicularly to elongated access opening of receptacle 129which is predominantly downwardly facing toward the water. This providesa pivoting snapping installation of step 77 onto tubes 75 to easeassembly. This step provides a greater and more comfortable grippingsurface for the swimmer's feet as compared to traditional thinner widthtreads or slippery tubes. The present step is also more secure wheninstalled as compared to most conventional tread inserts. The exposedupper, inboard and outboard surfaces of tread wall 121, the neck andexposed surfaces of projections 137 and 131, additionally provide anaesthetically pleasing and ornamental design.

Another embodiment of step 77 is illustrated in FIGS. 15-19. Thisembodiment step 77 is essentially the same as that of the priorembodiment except that the present one employs essentially downwardlyfacing access slots for each receptacle 127 a and 129 a. Nevertheless,projections 151, closest to inboard and outboard edges are shorter andless flexible than are the opposed projections 153 of eachtube-receiving receptacle. The different lengths and stiffnesses ofprojections create improved attachment forces of step relative to theunderlying tube structures 75 as compared to if the projections were allof the same length and flexibility. Receptacles 127 a and 129 a aremirror images of each other. This tread surface of step 77 lies flatterupon tube structure 75 than did the prior embodiment but for the curvedside-view shape which provides a visually appealing exterior shape.

Thus, both embodiments of the snap-on step advantageously achieveaesthetic as well as functional advantages over the prior traditionalsmall treads. It should also be appreciated that alternate treadpatterns can be employed such as a knurl pattern, herringbone pattern,repeating square pattern, repeating raised pyramidical pattern,repeating raised dome pattern, or the like. While at least ten elongatedand parallel grooves are preferred, more can be employed.

An expandable step aspect of the present ladder apparatus 201 isillustrated in FIGS. 20-38. More specifically, a first embodimentexpandable step 203 is illustrated in FIGS. 20-26. Preexisting originalladder 71 is rotatably mounted to boat 61 as previously describedhereinabove. Multiples of expandable step 203 are retrofit mounted tooriginal vertically oriented rails 73 and original horizontally orientedsteps 75 in a snap-on, tool-free and fastener-free manner.

Each expandable step 203 includes a laterally elongated outer sub-step205 and a laterally elongated inner sub-step 207. Outer sub-step 205 isdefined by a closed, generally rectangular or D-shaped cross-sectionalwall which defines a hollow central cavity 209 therein. Outer sub-step205 further includes an upper tread surface 211 defined by an anti-slipand foot grippable pattern such as multiple alternating grooves 213 andridges 215 which are laterally elongated and parallel to each other.Relief apertures may optionally be provided in a bottom of outersub-step 205 for cost and weight savings if injection molded. Aplurality of spaced apart teeth 231 project from a boat-facing inboardedge of outer sub-step 205. A tapered upper surface 233 and backsideribs 235 are also provided on each tooth 231. This has both aestheticand functional benefits.

Furthermore, inner sub-step 207 has an upper tread surface 217 definedby parallel, alternating ridges 219 and grooves 221 laterally elongatedthereon. Inner sub-step 207 has a plurality of downwardly extending ribsalong an underside thereof if injection molded. Inner sub-step 207linearly and laterally slides into and out of hollow cavity 209 of outersub-step 205 in a telescopic manner. Floatation foam may optionally beattached to an underside of inner sub-step 207.

Injection molded end sections 241 attach to proximal ends of sub-steps205 and 207 in a snap-fit manner or with separate fasteners such asscrews or rivets. The end section-to-sub-step assembly is done in thefactory and need not be done by the boat user. Each end section 241 hasa generally triangularly shaped gusset 243 upstanding from a top surfacethereof. A clasp or hook 245 is mounted to an inboard edge of gusset 243in an integrally single piece molded manner. Each hook 245 has aninternal surface of a generally semi-circular or C-cross-sectional shape247. Furthermore, a generally semi-circular or C-shaped surface 248 alsodefines a recess in a boat-facing inboard surface of each end section241 below gusset 243. Accessible openings in each hook 245 and recess248 for each side generally face toward each other, and verticalcenterlines through hook 245 and recess 248 are coaxially aligned andgenerally perpendicular to a nominal plane or median tangent ofsub-steps 205 and 207.

Polymeric or rubber inserts 249 of differing internal diameters andshapes are optionally insertable into the internal surfaces of each hook245 and recess 248 to allow for snug engagement to a correspondingpreexisting original rail 73. FIG. 24 shows insert 249 as having acircular internal and external cross-sectional shape and an alternateembodiment is shown in FIG. 25 as having a square or rectangularinternal cross-sectional shape. It should also be appreciated that ovalor other rail shapes may also be employed. Differing internal diameterinserts 249 also allow for engagement of hooks 245 and recesses 248 withthe different diameters of each smaller telescopic rail of originalladder 71.

Moreover, a through-hole 251 is provided within a flange of each endsection 241. A straight tubular handle 253 is inserted through thealigned holes 251 of the multiple expandable steps 203 and the handle istemporarily retained in place by an annular collar 255 affixed to handle253 adjacent an upper surface of the top expandable step. Supplementalhandles 253 provide additional stability to each retrofit expandablestep 203 such that a pair of steps, a rail and a handle on each sidedefine a four bar linkage-type mechanism.

Referring now to FIGS. 23 and 26, snap-on installation of eachexpandable step 203 requires the user to first position hooks 245 on aboat-facing side of existing rails 73 while recesses 248 are aligned onan opposite outboard side of rails 73. A lower abutment surface 257 ofouter sub-step 205 and/or teeth 231 is positioned above and outboard ofpreexisting step 75 for initiation of installation. Subsequently, theuser rotates expandable step 203 such that hooks 245 snuggly engageinboard sides of original rails 73 while outboard sides of the originalrails are snuggly engaged within recesses 248. Simultaneously, abutmentsurface 257 of expandable step 203 rests on top of and contacts againstthe associated original step 75. Thus, when a swimmer steps uponexpandable step 203, the swimmer's weight is transferred from treadsurface 211 to end sections 241, into existing rail 73 via cantileveringforces provided through hooks 245 and recesses 248, and also to existingstep 75. It is noteworthy that expandable step 203 can be easily removedand stowed by simply linearly sliding out supplemental handles 253 fromend sections 241 and then reverse pivoting of expandable step 203 todisengage original step 75 and rails 73. Then the preexisting ladder canbe telescopically collapsed and pivoted onboard the boat. Furthermore,sub-steps 205 and 207 and advantageously provide a wider Winboard-outboard surface area which is easier for a foot to grip andmore comfortable than prior skinny step or tread constructions. Thesub-steps, end sections, gussets, hooks and inserts are preferably madefrom a polymeric material which can float in water if inadvertentlydropped off of the boat.

As illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, another embodiment of ladderapparatus 201 employs an expandable step 271 like that of the priorembodiment, however, an outer sub-step 273 includes a generally flatupper extension wall 275 from which a set of spaced apart structuralribs 277 downwardly project, approximately half a vertical thickness ofthe overall outer sub-step 273. An abutment surface 279 located at abottom of ribs 277 contacts upon existing step 75 when installed. Thisversion provides additional foot contacting surface area which mayoptionally have a set of tread grooves and ridges on the upper surfacethereof.

Referring to FIGS. 29-31, another embodiment of an expandable step 281of ladder apparatus 201 employs an extruded outer sub-step 283 and anextruded inner sub-step 285 which are telescopically expandable to eachother. Outer sub-step 283 has a uniform and constant cross-sectionalshape and a hollow center while inner sub-step 285 also has a constantand uniform cross-sectional shape with a hollow center. Thecross-sectional shapes of inner and outer sub-steps 283 and 285,respectively, are of a generally rectangular or D-cross-sectional shapewith elongated, parallel grooved and ridged tread surfaces 287 and 289on tops thereof. Fasteners 290, such as rivets or screws, brazing (ifmetal) or sonic welding (if polymeric) may be used to secure proximalends of sub-steps 283 and 285 to their respective end sections 241 in afactory, pre-assembled manner. The sub-steps are preferably aluminumwith an anodized hard coating, but may alternately be of a polymericmaterial. End sections 241 are otherwise essentially the same as that inthe prior embodiments. This extruded embodiment is lower cost tomanufacture and tool, however, the prior injection molded embodimentsprovide more structural rigidity and support. Foam and/or end caps (withan air pocket therebetween) may optionally be added within the innersub-step to assist with floatation.

Another variation of expandable steps 281 is shown in FIGS. 52-55.Sub-steps 283 and 285 and injection molded end sections 241 areessentially like that in FIGS. 29-31. Steps 283 and 285 are outwardlyspaced away from original boat-mounted tubular steps 75 by gap G.Furthermore, the original steps 75 fit within a notched out receptacle601 in each bottom inboard corner of end sections 241. Notchedreceptacles 601 provide more use stability while reducing weight,material costs and manufacturing complexity as compared to theoverlapping embodiments shown in FIGS. 23 and 28, by way of comparison.

Additionally, a foam, rubber or soft elastomeric polymer cover 603 ismounted upon upper, inboard and outboard walls of each outer sub-step285. Cover 603 can be co-extrusionally molded or adhesively bonded toeach more rigid sub-step 285 if permanent attachment is desired.Alternately, cover 603 can be injection molded if an irregular treadpattern 605 and/or text 607 is desired, and then either adhesively ormechanically fastened, such as by rivets or screws, to the outersub-steps. Moreover, screws, which may be countersunk below the outersurfaces of the cover, provide removable mounting advantages. Sub-steps283 and 285 have a uniform and hollow cross-sectional shape and arepreferred extruded metal such as aluminum. Alternately, the sub-stepscan be extruded or injection molded from a polymeric material.

Reference should now be made to FIGS. 32-35 for yet another embodimentof ladder apparatus 201. This expandable step embodiment 291 includesmultiple left-side beams 293 and multiple right-side beams 295 whichlaterally slide relative to each other to expand or contract. Each beamis an extruded and laterally elongated member having a generallyC-cross-sectional shape with a hollow center 297. Each beam includesinwardly projecting and generally vertically facing fingers 299 adjacentan elongated opening thereof. A generally vertically elongated andstraight spine 301, opposite the opening of each beam, includes anundercut channel 303 at upper and lower portions thereof. Thus, fingers299 of one set of beams engage with channels 303 of the immediatelyadjacent beams in a slideable tongue-in-groove like manner. Ridges 305and/or grooves are provided on an upper surface of each beam to create atread surface or pattern, which is above the tongue-in-groove interlocksto reduce inadvertent foot pinching. Each beam has a uniform andconstant cross-sectional shape, and is preferably extruded from aluminumor alternately a polymeric material. Proximal ends of the beams arepre-assembled to their adjacent end sections 241 via snap-fit, screw orrivet fasteners, or by welding. End sections 241 are otherwise identicalto those previously discussed hereinabove. This expandable stepembodiment is advantageous in that sub-step beams 293 and 295 provide asubstantially coplanar (or constant if curved) tread surface without avarying height therebetween when the sub-steps are expanded.

FIG. 36 illustrates a further embodiment of ladder apparatus 201. Inthis embodiment, outer sub-step 321 is optionally integrally molded withend section 323. Similarly, inner sub-step 325 is integrally molded withits end section 327. However, holes for a supplemental handle are notprovided with this embodiment. It should be appreciated that thefeatures of this embodiment may be mixed and matched with any of theprior expandable step embodiments and vice versa.

An alternate embodiment of an expandable step 241 of ladder apparatus201 is shown in FIGS. 37 and 38. Expandable sub-steps 243 and 245 aretelescopically expandable or contractible relative to each other.Upstanding collar formations or clasps 247 are either integrally moldedwith or separately created and coupled to the proximal ends of eachsub-step 243 and 245 with laterally and outwardly facing openings.Fasteners 249, such as screws or rivets, or sonic welding, may be usedto couple clasps 247 to each sub-step. Each clasp 247 has a generallysemi-circular or C-cross-sectional shape which coincides with half of anouter diameter of original preexisting rail 73. Inserts of differingdiameters or shapes may optionally be provided as previously discussedherein. A flexible polymeric or fabric strap 252 is removably attachedto a clasp-mounted attachment 253, such as a barb, buckle, snap orVelcro® hook-and-loop fastener, surrounding the side of original rail 73opposite clasp 247. A bottom abutment surface of outer sub-step 243rests upon the smaller original step when installed.

All of the preceding expandable step embodiments allow for lateral sizeadjustability depending upon the specific preexisting rail spacing towhich the expandable step is being retrofit thereto, since such variesladder-to-ladder. The present expandable step embodiments are ideallysuited for retrofit use with telescopically collapsible existing ladderswhere the rail diameters are of differing sizes. Moreover, it shouldalso be appreciated that the expandable steps of the present embodimentsmay be used with fixed ladders that do not rotate and also with wheeledrecreational vehicle ladders.

FIGS. 39-46 pertain to a retrofit telescopic ladder 351 attached to apreexisting original boat-mounted ladder 353 of a ladder apparatus 355.Existing original ladder 353 has telescoping rails 357, the uppermost ofwhich is mounted to boat-attached brackets 359 via pivot pins 361.Horizontally elongated tubular metal, or alternately molded polymericoriginal steps 363 laterally span between rails 353 of each telescopicsubsection.

Retrofit or supplemental ladder 351 includes multiple telescopicsupplemental rails 371 on each side, for example at least three railsubsections and more preferably at least four rail subsections. Enlargedsteps 373 are permanently mounted, such as by welding or brazing, tosupplemental rails 371 wherein there is preferably one supplemental step373 for each telescopic rail subsection. Thus, the rail subsections andsteps of retrofit supplemental ladder 351 can be expanded for generallyvertical functional use as shown in FIG. 42 or collapsed for stowage asshown in FIG. 34.

Each supplemental step 373 preferably has a generally flat middleportion 381, a downwardly or reverse turned outboard edge portion 383and a downwardly bent or offset turned inboard edge portion 385.Downwardly turned inboard portion 385 of each step defines a laterallyelongated hook laterally spaced toward a center between supplementalrails 371. Hooks 385 are removably positioned on top and inboard of eachcorresponding original step 363 of original ladder 353 when installed.The telescopic nature of retrofit supplemental ladder 351 allows fordifferent vertical supplemental step-to-supplemental step 373 spacingvariations between existing steps 363 of existing ladder constructions;for example, if expanded existing step-to-step 363 spacing is smallerthan average then rails 371 and steps 373 of retrofit supplementalladder may not need to be fully expanded in order for the uppermost twoor three hooks 385 to be securely engaged to original steps 363.

FIGS. 44-46 show a clamp 391 mounted to an underside surface 401 of anuppermost step 373 of retrofit supplemental ladder 351. Clamp 391includes a mounting bracket 393, a manually actuatable handle 395, anovercenter linkage assembly 397 and an abutment clamping bumper 399.When the boat user rotates handle 395 from the unclamping position, asillustrated in FIG. 45, to the clamping positions of FIGS. 44 and 46,abutment bumper 399 will compress existing step 363 between it andunderside surface 401 of supplemental step 373. It should beappreciated, however, that other clamping constructions may be employed.

Each supplemental step 373 is preferably stamped from aluminum orstainless steel, but may alternately be injection molded, extruded orcompression molded from a polymeric material. Tread patterns may bestamped or molded into an upper surface thereof or a high-frictioncoating or applique may be alternately adhesively bonded upon middleportion 381 of each step 373. Hook portion 385 is laterally smaller thana majority of middle step portion 381 and outboard edge portion 373 ofeach step to allow the hook portion to more easily fit between differentspacing rails of the existing ladder. Furthermore, a majority of eachstep is outboard of the retrofit and existing rails 371 and 357,respectively. It is also optionally envisioned that holes andsupplemental upwardly elongated handles can be employed in thesupplemental steps to add stability.

Retrofit supplemental ladder 351 of the present ladder apparatus 355advantageously provides a larger foot gripping surface area, a morecomfortable step area and better foot accessibility to each step ascompared to the existing and prior ladders. Furthermore, the presentretrofit supplemental ladder optionally provides a greater quantity ofsteps and steps positioned lower into the water than existing and priorladder constructions, but while allowing easy removability for stowageof the existing and retrofit ladders.

FIGS. 41-43 illustrate an extension handle 421 integrally welded as asingle piece with an uppermost one of supplemental rails 371. Extensionhandle 421 has a vertically and longitudinally elongated segment 423which is offset from but parallel to a longitudinal vertical centerlineof the corresponding supplemental rail 371 of retrofit supplementalladder 351. Extension handle 421 is shown on only one side of retrofitsupplemental ladder 351; however, such extension handles 421 may bepositioned for both supplemental rails 371.

FIG. 51 illustrates an embodiment where a pair of extension handles 425are attached to one supplemental rail 371 in a removable manner forstowage. A leaf spring biased pin assembly 427 is optionally located ona more narrowly tapered coupling end 429 of each extension handlesection 425 for receipt into a corresponding aperture in a side wall ofthe uppermost rail 371 and, for the multiple extension handle versionshown, also on upper segment 431 of the lower of the extension handles425. This sectional multi-handle construction can optionally be used foreach rail, of an existing or supplemental ladder.

FIG. 50 illustrates an embodiment where a pivot pin 441 and associatedbracket 443 couple an extension handle 445 to an uppermost supplementalrail 371. FIG. 50 illustrates extension handle 445 disengaged fromsupplemental rail 371 and rotated to a stowed position elongated offsetfrom but generally parallel to a longitudinal centerline of supplementalrails 371. When installed to a functional position, the boat usermanually rotates extension handle 445 to a vertical orientation coaxialwith supplemental rail 371 such that a more narrowly tapered couplingend 447 is inserted into an open upper end of supplemental rail 371.Again, this pivoting extension handle construction can be optionallyused on a single rail or both rails, for an existing ladder orsupplemental ladder.

Another alternate embodiment retrofit supplemental ladder 501 is shownin FIGS. 47 and 48. In this embodiment, upwardly extending supplementalrails 503 are of a fixed and not telescopic nature and have multiplehorizontally extending steps 505 spanning therebetween. Each rail 503and step 505 preferably has a rectangular cross-sectional shape;however, alternate shapes may be employed. A pair of laterally spacedapart hooks 507 are pre-assembled to their corresponding supplementalrails 503 by welding, rivets or screws, adjacent an uppermost step 505.These hooks 507 removably engage to outboard areas of uppermost originalstep 363 of existing boat-mounted ladder 353. Additionally, side guides511 project inboard from supplemental rails 503 for alignment with andcontacting against lateral edges of the preexisting ladder rails.

A removable standoff 521 is provided to space retrofit supplementalladder 501 away from boat hull 63. Standoff 521 can optionally positionsupplemental rails 503 to an outwardly angled orientation of at least15° off of vertical, and more preferably at least 30° off of verticalwith hooks 507 adjacent an apex of the angle. This advantageously allowssupplemental ladder 501 to function as outwardly extending stairs witheach lower step 505 more outwardly accessible than those above. Standoff521 includes an inner shaft 523 and an outer shaft 525 within which theinner shaft slides. An adjustment bolt 527 and wing nut 529, cotter pinor other removable fastener, is inserted into aligned holes 531 ofshafts 523 and 525 such that the inboard-outboard length of standoff 521can be expandably adjusted or collapsed for stowage. In the FIG. 47version, a generally U-shaped clevis 533 removably couples an outboardend of standoff 521 to a corresponding step 505 while an enlarged foot535 rests against the boat hull.

FIG. 48 shows retrofit supplemental ladder 501 with its hooks 507engaging existing step 363 of existing boat-mounted ladder 353. FIG. 48also illustrates a pivotal connection 541 for one or more standoffs 521to one or both supplemental rails 503. A tiltable foot is pivotallycoupled to a corresponding shaft and rests against boat hull 63.

FIG. 49 shows serrated teeth or projections 551 between an outboardshaft 553 and inboard shaft 555 of an alternate variation of standoff521. Shafts 553 and 555 sit side-by-side of each other rather than thetelescopic prior embodiments discussed hereinabove. An adjustablefastener including a bolt 557, washer 559 and wing nut 561, projectthrough a hole 563 in shaft 553 and in an oversized elongated slot 565of shaft 555. This allows for inboard-outboard length adjustability ofstandoff 521 for use with any of the preceding preexisting orsupplemental ladder embodiments disclosed hereinabove.

Another embodiment ladder apparatus 651 can be observed in FIGS. 56-59.Pre-existing original boat-mounted ladder 353 includes pairs ofgenerally vertical elongated telescoping rails 357 which are joined byoriginal steps 363. A retrofit extension rail or handle 653 includes atubular upper section 655 and a tubular lower section 657 which are bothlongitudinally elongated in generally vertical directions somewhatparallel to each other. An offset angled or stepped middle section 659connects the upper and lower sections. Extension rail 653 is preferablymetal such as aluminum or stainless steel.

Multiple pairs of stamped sheet metal hook-like attachments 681 aresecured to lower section 657 in a laterally and longitudinally spacedapart manner, such as by welding or riveting. It is alternatelyenvisioned that only two longitudinally spaced hooks, rather than thefour shown, may be employed although the hooks may need to be wider toprovide the desired stability. At least one of the hooks 681′ has alonger projecting distal end 683 so as to make alignment and engagementwith the pre-existing steps 363 easier. An inner and general C-shapededge 685 of an upper hook, or all the hooks, may optionally be taperedwith a widest dimension closest to the openly accessible distal ends.The hooks fit over the pre-existing steps either with both pairsadjacent an internal side of one rail assembly (e.g., the right rails asillustrated in FIG. 56) or each pair of hooks may straddle one railassembly as illustrated in FIG. 57. In the straddling configuration, oneupper hook and one lower hook are on one lateral side of the railassembly while the other upper hook and the other lower hook are on theopposite lateral side of the same rail assembly. The double pairs ofhooks allow for retrofit mounting of the extension handle on either theright or left pre-existing rails.

While the preferred extension handle 653 has a three-dimensional lateraland outboard diagonal offset, this hook construction may alternately beemployed with a straight and coaxial upper and lower sectionarrangement. Furthermore, the removable hook attachments can be employedwith a non-telescopic pre-existing ladder. Moreover, the extensionhandle and hooks can alternately be manufactured from polymeric,fiberglass or other materials. Internal and/or external foam may beprovided in the tubular sections for floatation.

Another expandable and retrofit step assembly 651 of the present ladderapparatus can be observed in FIGS. 60-66. Expandable step 651 includes apair of outer or end sub-steps 653 having an integrally formed andsingle piece end section 655. An inner surface of each outer sub-step653 defines a substantially circular or C-shaped and outwardly openingrecess 657 within a generally semi-cylindrical upstanding collar 659.Outer sub-step 653 has a generally downwardly opening U-shape defined bya primarily horizontally elongated upper wall 661 and generallyvertically extending front and back walls 663 projecting from edgesthereof. Optionally, elongated reinforcement ribs may also project froman underside of upper wall 661 if additional stiffening is desired.

A substantially C-shaped grommet 665, molded from an elastomericmaterial, is press-fit within recess 657 of each collar 659 forengagement around the associated tubular rail 73 of the boat orrecreational vehicle-mounted ladder. Grommet 665 has barb-like hooks 671facing each other adjacent the opening thereof which are resilientlycompressible to snap-fit about rail 73 when pushed therepast duringtool-free and fastener-free installation or removal. Different interiordiameter grommets 665 may be provided as a kit with the expandable stepsuch that the user can select the grommet size most appropriate tosnuggly fit around the diameter of the pre-existing ladder rail 73.

A central sub-step 673 has a generally U-shape with a downwardly facingopening defined by an upper wall 675 of a generally horizontally andlaterally elongated configuration with generally vertically extendingwalls 677 projecting from forward and backward edges thereof. Upturnedflanges 679 project from bottom edges of walls 677 and define alaterally elongated channel 681 therein. Central sub-step 673 serves asa structural reinforcement upon which an elastomeric and generallyU-shaped tread 691 is attached, such as by an adhesive, rivets or thelike. Central step 673 is preferably extruded or stamped from a sheet ofaluminum, although other rigid and lightweight materials may alternatelybe employed.

The inboard end portions of outer sub-steps 653 slideably engage withincentral sub-step 673 wherein walls 663 are slideably trapped withinchannels 681 of central step 673 in a tongue and groove manner. Thus,outer sub-steps 653 may be expanded from the extracted positionillustrated in FIG. 62 to the laterally and outwardly expanded positionof FIG. 63. The bottom surfaces of outer sub-steps 653 rest on top oforiginal ladder steps 75.

Advantageously, this embodiment can accommodate a variety of originalladder step configurations of different shapes and sizes while providinga larger and more accessible step surface. Furthermore, this embodimentadvantageously accommodates different rail-to-rail widths with a rigidand aesthetically pleasing construction. Moreover, this embodimentexpandable step minimizes foot-pinching concerns between adjacentmulti-height sub-steps.

As can be seen in FIGS. 67 and 68, a planar version of tread 691 isoptionally provided in a user kit with one or more fore-and-aftelongated grooves 693 so that the user may sever outboard end sections695 from a main body section 697 depending upon the desired rail-to-raillength of the expandable step 651. In this version, tread 697 has a flatbottom surface 699 without downwardly projecting front and back walls.Tread 691 of the FIG. 61 configuration may be extrusion molded while theversion of the FIG. 67 arrangement may be injection molded to contain alogo 701, text or other patterned indicia thereupon.

Reference should now be made to FIGS. 69-72 for another expandable stepembodiment for the ladder apparatus. The present exemplary expandablestep 721 includes the interlocking central sub-step 673 and outersub-steps 653 of the prior embodiment except the present constructionemploys a different mechanism for removable attachment to the existingboat or recreational vehicle-mounted ladder rails 73. A clamp 723 ispivotably coupled to each outer sub-step 653 through a pivot pin 725located adjacent to a rearward edge thereof to provide a more roundedappearance and end surface facing the user during use. Each clampincludes a pair of fingers 727 and 729 which each have a curved recess731 to conform around lateral outside surfaces of existing rail 73.

A clamp lock employs a somewhat T-shaped bolt 731 which has a laterallyelongated shaft 733 and a fore-and-aft elongated crossing handle 735.Alternately a different elongated fastener rod with a generally circularknob or loop thereon may be employed. A cylindrical fulcrum head 737crosses shaft 733 at a distal end and is received within a matingsemi-cylindrical groove adjacent a distal end 739 of finger 729. Anintermediate cylindrical locking post 741 crosses a middle portion ofshaft 733 and removeably engages within a generally semi-cylindricalgroove of finger 727. The vertically elongated grooves face away fromeach other. Thus, T-bolt 731 has its intermediate post 741 disengagedfrom the groove of finger 727 to allow the user to push open fingers 727and 729 away from each other about pivot pin 725. This is the positionshown in the right hand side of FIG. 71, which allows the user to insertthe corresponding ladder rail 73 past spread apart distal ends 739 andinto the facing recesses 731 of the clamping fingers. Thereafter, theuser pushes together the distal ends of clamping fingers 727 and 729 androtates T-bolt 731 about its fulcrum head 737 to re-engage intermediatepost 741 with the corresponding groove of finger 727 in a locking andfastened manner. This locking and fastened position is illustrated inFIG. 70 and also the left side of FIG. 71. The locking T-bolt and distalends of the clamping fingers face the boat or recreational vehicles andare advantageously positioned away from the user's feet forward of theladder rail 73. Each clamp 723 is preferably injection molded from apolymeric material, and the clamp lock may optionally include a flexibletether coupled to the outer sub-step.

Reference should now be made to FIGS. 73-77. Another embodimentexpandable step 771 of the present ladder apparatus has an outer andcentral sliding sub-step configuration like the immediately prior twoembodiments. However, with the present exemplary construction, eachouter sub-step 773 employs a different end section 775 and an associatedclamping finger 777. End section 775 includes a partially circularcavity 779 within which is press fit an elastomeric insert 781 havingresiliently compressible barbs 783 facing each other. Cavity 779 and theinserted internal surface of insert 781 correspond with a partiallycylindrical recess 785 within an upstanding collar 787 formed inclamping finger 777. Thus, when in the installed and closed position,recess 785 and insert 781 will essentially surround an adjacent sectionof the generally vertically elongated boat or vehicle-mounted ladderrail 73.

At least one, and more preferably a pair, of bifurcated pivot tabs 791laterally and generally horizontally project from an outboard wall ofend section 775 and have coaxially aligned holes 793 therethrough. Oneor more flanges 795 generally horizontally projecting from an exteriorof clamping finger 777 have an internal hole 797 therethrough which ispositioned between hole 793. A rivet or shoulder bolt and nut fastener799 couple together tabs 791 and flange 795 through their correspondingholes to allow the user to rotate clamping finger 777 along a generallyhorizontal plane about the vertical fastener axis between a closedinstallation position (as shown in FIGS. 73 and 75) to an open position(see FIG. 76) to allow the expandable step to be installed or removedfrom the existing ladder.

One or more locking tabs 801, with correspondingly aligned holes 803,project from a side of cavity 779 opposite that of pivot tabs 791. Theselocking tabs 801 are shown in a generally horizontally extendingconfiguration in FIGS. 74-76 and in a generally vertically extendingconfiguration in FIG. 77. One or more fastening flanges 811 project froma wall of clamping finger 777 and have a hole 813 therein. A shoulderbolt, having a head and threaded shaft with a washer and nut, cotter pinor other removable fastener 815, extends through holes 803 and 813 sothe user can secure the openable end of clamping finger 777 in theclosed and clamping position.

Additionally, clamping finger 777 includes an annular projection 821with a circular hole 823 therethrough which engages around an adjacentportion of a supplemental and generally vertically elongated handle 825.A pin or snuggly fitting insert may secure a lower end of handle 825 toa bottom one of the steps; however, clearance is provided between theother holes 823 and the handle to allow sliding therebetween when thesteps are telescopically collapsed for storage. Crossing ribs 827 areinjection molded into a bottom side of a gusset section 829 of clampingfinger 777. Furthermore, side to side and laterally elongated ribs 831are preferably injection molded into a bottom side of sub-step 773. Itshould be appreciated that alternate rib configurations and shapes maybe employed. Outer sub-step 773 and clamping finger 777 are preferablymade from a polymeric material but may alternately be cast or machinedfrom a metallic material.

Another embodiment of a step 841 employed with the ladder apparatus isillustrated in FIGS. 78-80. This exemplary embodiment step 841 isessentially the same as the FIG. 15-19 construction except that thepresent one has more vertically oriented front and rear edges 843 and845, respectively, albeit with a slight curve. Furthermore, projections847 are slightly shorter in the vertical direction than are those of theprior embodiment. Additionally, an intersection 849 between intermediatearcuate projection 851 and an underside of a tread wall 853, within acentrally elongated cavity 855, employs a larger radius than with theprior embodiment. This tread or step is preferably extruded, oralternately injection molded, from rigid polyvinyl chloride. Elongatedgrooves, a knurl pattern, logos or other foot-gripping surfaces may beemployed upon an upper surface 857 of step 841.

FIGS. 81-102 show another embodiment of a supplemental extension handle901 for the present ladder apparatus 903. Extension handle 901 is anelongated and hollow tube with a capped or otherwise closed, upper andfree distal end 905. A lower proximal and coupling end 907 is disposedon an opposite end of handle 901. The terms “upper”, “lower”, “outward”and “rearward” are with reference to the installed usage orientation. Alaterally outward bend 909 (as best observed in FIGS. 82 and 87)positions the useable upper portion of handle 901 laterally outboard ofthe boat or vehicle-mounted ladder rail 73. Furthermore, anintermediately disposed rearward bend 911 (best illustrated in FIGS. 83and 87) is located between outward bend 909 and distal end 905, andplaces the useable upper portion of the handle rearwardly spaced from alongitudinal axis (and exterior surface) of existing ladder rail 73.This exemplary embodiment additionally provides a grippable uppersegment 913, disposed between rearward bend 911 and distal end 905, in agenerally laterally straight and vertical orientation yet in arearwardly diagonally angled and straight orientation. This can best beobserved in FIGS. 82 and 83. Finally, a curved and somewhat hook-likesegment 915 is located between segment 913 and distal end 905, andprojects in both laterally outboard and rearward directions with distalend 905 being somewhat downwardly, rearwardly and outboardly facing. Itshould be appreciated that alternately shaped extension handles may onlyhave the rearward and outward bends without the additional directionchanges although some of the desired functional advantages may not befully realized.

Foam may optionally be placed inside handle 901 and/or a cylindricalfoam collar 921 may be press-fit about an outside portion of handle 901,preferably adjacent proximal coupling end 907. This allows flotation inwater. Handle 901 is preferably extruded then bent, or hydro-formedstainless steel, but may alternately be aluminum or a rigid polymericmaterial.

The present embodiment extension handle 901 includes a couplingextension socket 923. A first version of socket 923 is illustrated inFIGS. 86 and 89-91. This version employs a hollow head 925 defined by astraight multi-grooved section 927 and a circularly extending flange929. Head 925 is press-fit and then either raised, MIG-welded, crimpedor adhesively bonded inside of proximal coupling end 907 of handle 901.

Furthermore, a shaft 931 of socket 923 longitudinally projects from head925. Shaft 931 has a bifurcated shape defining a longitudinallyelongated slot 933 open to a distal end 935 thereof. Tapered internaland external surfaces 937 are also provided on the distal end of shaft931. Moreover, an exterior of shaft 931 has a generally cylindricalshape.

FIG. 92 shows another embodiment extension handle of the present ladderapparatus. This construction is essentially the same as that shown inthe FIG. 86 configuration, however, an alignment guide 951 has an uppersection 953 affixed to an exterior of proximal coupling end 907 ofextension handle 901 such as by welding, adhesive bonding, rivets,screws or the like. A lower section 955 of guide 951 longitudinallyprojects beyond the distal end of socket shaft 931 for initial insertioninto the mating rail or bracket component. Moreover, an intermediatesection 957 is laterally spaced away from the adjacent external surfaceof shaft 931 of the socket to allow the mating component wall to be slidtherebetween. An interior surface of guide 951 has a partiallycylindrical cross-section shape. Guide 951 assists in the user aligningand guiding insertion of the extension handle into the mating component,and may have a rounded or taper leading end 959 to assist in thisregard.

FIGS. 93-96 illustrate another embodiment of a socket 941 employed withextension handle 901 and the ladder apparatus of the FIGS. 81-88embodiment. However, the present socket 941 employs a differently shapedand solid shaft 943. Shaft 943 projects from a generally cylindricalhead 945 having a knurled section 947 and a circularly projecting flange949. Shaft 943 is longitudinally elongated with a pair of oppositelyfacing external surfaces 951 with a partially cylindrical shape on each.Furthermore, a pair of oppositely facing elongated flat surfaces 953each span between the partially spherical surfaces 951. A taperedleading end 955 is also provided to ease insertion into the matingcomponent. This version of shaft 951 is ideally suited for insertioninto an upper end of an existing ladder rail which employs flat headscrews for the ladder pivot 79 (see FIG. 81). This socket is preferablymachined or cast from stainless steel.

Another embodiment socket 961 can be observed in FIGS. 97-100. Thisembodiment socket employs a hollow head 963 having a generallycylindrical external surface and a circularly projecting circumferentialflange 965. A shaft 967 has a longitudinally elongated external surfacewith a generally cylindrical shape. This external surface, however, isinterrupted by a pair of oppositely facing and longitudinally elongatedgrooves or partial-slots 969 which have a solid center wall 971therebetween defining a somewhat H-shape when viewed from its leadingend 973. A taper 975 is internally disposed within each slot 969 toassist in socket insertion into the coupling member, however, leadingend 973 preferably has a flat end face. It is envisioned however thatthe end face may have a curved or otherwise tapered shape, although someof the advantages may not be fully achieved. Socket 961 is preferablymachined or cast from stainless steel and is ideally suited forattachment within a smaller tube diameter for the extension handle,while the shaft shape maintains the strength at smaller diameters. Theslots prevent rotation and allow the socket to fit over cap screwsemployed with the coupling member, such as with the existing ladder rail73.

FIGS. 101 and 102 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of anextension handle 981 employed with the present ladder apparatus. Handle981 may be of any of the embodiments discussed herein and is preferablya hollow metallic tube. A hollow tubular reinforcement insert 983 ispositioned in a press-fit, adhesively bonded, braised, welded or rivetedmanner inside a proximal coupling end 985 of handle 981. Reinforcementinsert 987 has a longitudinally elongated throughslot 987 pierced or cuttherein which is openly accessible toward its leading end 985 prior toits insertion within handle 981. After they are attached together,proximal coupling end 985 of handle 981 and the adjacent portion ofreinforcement insert 983 are stamped or hydro-formed to have oppositelyfacing external flats 989 bordered by generally partially-cylindricalexternal surfaces 991. This allows for alignment to the coupled memberwhen inserted without the need for a separately inserted socket.

Returning to FIGS. 81-85, one or more coupling brackets 1001 areattached to one or both existing ladder rails 73 for removeablyattaching any of the preceding extension handles thereto. Bracket 1001includes a mount 1003 having a generally cylindrical and tubular shapemoveably surrounding a portion of rail 73. The bottom portion of mount1003 has a first openly accessible detent or recess 1005 and an offsetsecond detent or recess 1007 of a different height. Bracket 1001additionally includes a receptacle 1009 also having a tubular andlongitudinally elongated generally cylindrical shape. Receptacle 1009 iscoupled to mount 1003 by one or more structural plates 1011.Longitudinal axes extending through a center of mount 1003 andreceptacle 1009 are generally parallel to each other and also generallyvertical when in use. Moreover, a laterally and generally horizontal pinor rod 1013 is affixed to span within the opening of receptacle 1009.

In use, mount 1003 is rotatable about existing rail 73 from a stowedposition, as can be observed in FIG. 84, to a functional use position asshown in FIGS. 81 and 83. In the stowed position, receptacle 1009 isgenerally co-planar with both rails 73 and positioned therebetween, withextension handle 901 removed. In this orientation, second recess 1007engages with the outboard portion of the adjacent step to deterundesired rotation of the bracket. Pivot brackets 79 can also becollapsed against rails 73 when bracket 1001 is stowed and the ladder isrotated to its stowed position.

In the functional usage position, however, the user slightly upwardlylifts the bracket and then rotates it until receptacle 1009 is rearwardof associated rail 73 at which point the deeper recess 1005 engages withstep 75 to deter undesired rotation therefrom. Thereafter, thebifurcated and slotted coupling in the extension handle, whether using asocket or integrally slotted, is inserted within receptacle 1009 and forengagement with rod 1013 in a tool-free, fastener-free and removablemanner. Bracket 1001 is preferably made from a metallic material.

As can be observed in FIGS. 103-105, another embodiment of a retrofitextension handle 1021 of the present ladder apparatus is similar to thatof FIGS. 56-59. However, each hook 1023 and 1025 of the presentembodiment handle 1021 has an internally offset edge 1027 and 1029 at amiddle area of each generally inverted U-shaped slot 1031 and 1033. Thisoffset edge accommodates different sizes, shapes and placement of laddersteps 1035, 1035 a, 1035 b, 1035 c and 1035 d. Furthermore, a generallyrectangular plate 1037, with rounded corners, is welded to an oppositeside of a handle tube 1039 than are hooks 1023 and 1025, therebytrapping a ladder rail 1041 therebetween.

Another embodiment retrofit extension handle 1051 can be seen in FIGS.106-108. Handle 1051 employs hooks 1052 like those shown in FIGS. 56-59or 103-105. However, the present construction additionally includes ablock 1055 having a wedge or taper 1057 on a forward and inboard cornerthereof. Taper 1057 serves to tighten the fit between hook 1053 and astep 1059 of a pre-existing ladder 1061 during installation. Avertically elongated and angled wedge or taper may additionally oralternately be provided on the block.

While various embodiments of the present ladder apparatus have beendisclosed, other variations may be employed. All of the extensionhandle, snap-in step, expandable step and retrofit supplemental ladderconstructions disclosed herein may be interchanged and mixed and matchedwith each other. While a stern mounted ladder apparatus has beenillustrated, it should also be appreciated that the ladder apparatus canbe employed on a side of a boat as well. Moreover, all of the precedingladder embodiments may be employed with wheeled recreational vehicles inaddition to watercraft. It is intended by the following claims to coverthese and any other departures from the disclosed embodiments that fallwithin the true spirit of the invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A boat or recreational vehicle ladderapparatus comprising: (a) an elongated handle; (b) a bracket comprising:a ladder rail-mount having a substantially circular cross-sectional,internal shape; a coupling attached to the mount and the couplingremoveably attaching to an end of the handle; (c) the bracket beingpivotable to a handle usable position about a longitudinal andsubstantially vertical axis of the mount; (d) the bracket beingpivotable to a stowed position with the handle removed from thecoupling; and (e) the mount including a recess which assists inmaintaining the bracket in the handle usable position by the recessengaging with one of the steps.
 2. The ladder apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a boat-mounted ladder including a pair oflongitudinally elongated rails with steps spanning between the rails,the ladder further including a pivot coupled to each of the railsadjacent upper ends thereof, the mount of the bracket surrounding asection of one of the rails of the ladder.
 3. The ladder apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein: the handle includes outward and rearward bends; atleast a majority of a user-gripping area of the handle is substantiallyvertically oriented; and the handle is a boat-ladder extension handle.4. The ladder apparatus of claim 1, wherein the coupling of the bracketis located on a plane through the rails of the ladder when the bracketis in the stowed position.
 5. The ladder apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe coupling is an elongated and hollow tube, and an elongated axisthrough a center of the coupling is parallel to the axis of the mount.6. The ladder apparatus of claim 1, wherein: an end of the handle fitswithin a receptacle of the coupling; and at least a majority of auser-gripping area of the handle is substantially vertically orientedwhen inserted into the receptacle.
 7. The ladder apparatus of claim 1,wherein the end of the elongated handle is insertable into an open topof the coupling of the bracket in a direction substantially parallel toa rotational centerline axis through the ladder rail-mount.
 8. Theladder apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second recess in abottom edge of the mount of the bracket, at least one of the recesseshaving an inverted U-shape.
 9. The ladder apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe bracket further comprises a pair of substantially parallel andplanar side plates spanning between the ladder rail-mount and thecoupling.
 10. The ladder apparatus of claim 1, wherein the ladderrail-mount is vertically longer than the coupling of the bracket when inthe usable position with the handle inserted therein.
 11. The ladderapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a rod laterally extendingthrough the coupling of the bracket in a direction substantiallyperpendicular to an insertion direction of the handle into the coupling.12. A boat or recreational vehicle ladder apparatus comprising: (a) aladder including a pair of longitudinally elongated rails with stepsspanning between the rails; (b) an elongated handle; (c) a bracketcomprising: a mount located around a section of one of the rails of theladder; a coupling attached to the mount and an end of the handle beingconfigured for removeable insertion into the coupling; (d) the bracketbeing pivotable to a handle usable position about a rotational axis ofthe mount; (e) the bracket being pivotable to a stowed position; (f) themount including a recess which assists in maintaining the bracket in oneof the positions; and (g) a rod laterally extending through the couplingof the bracket in a direction substantially perpendicular to aninsertion direction of the handle into the coupling.
 13. The ladderapparatus of claim 12, wherein: the ladder further including a pivotcoupled to each of the rails adjacent upper ends thereof, and the ladderbeing telescopically collapsible; the ladder is a boat ladder; thehandle includes a floatation structure; the coupling of the bracket islocated on a plane through the rails of the ladder when the bracket isin the stowed position; and the bracket is located between an uppermostof the steps and the pivot.
 14. The ladder apparatus of claim 12,wherein there are multiples of the recess in a bottom edge of the mount.15. The ladder apparatus of claim 12, wherein the recess operablyengages with one of the steps.
 16. The ladder apparatus of claim 12,wherein: the handle includes outward and rearward bends; at least amajority of a user-gripping area of the handle is substantiallyvertically oriented; and the handle is a boat-ladder extension handle.17. The ladder apparatus of claim 12, wherein the end of the elongatedhandle is insertable into an open top of the coupling of the bracket ina direction substantially parallel to a rotational centerline axisthrough the mount.
 18. The ladder apparatus of claim 12, furthercomprising a rod laterally extending through the coupling of the bracketin a direction substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction ofthe handle into the coupling.
 19. A boat ladder apparatus comprising:(a) a boat-mounted ladder including a pair of longitudinally elongatedrails with steps spanning between the rails; (b) an elongated handle;(c) a bracket comprising: a mount located around a section of one of therails of the ladder; a receptacle attached to the mount and an end ofthe handle being removeably attachable to the receptacle; (d) thebracket being pivotable to a handle usable position about a rotationalaxis of the mount; and (e) the bracket being pivotable to a stowedposition.
 20. The ladder apparatus of claim 19, further comprising: theladder further including a pivot coupled to each of the rails adjacentupper ends thereof; the ladder being telescopically collapsible; and thebracket being located between an uppermost of the steps and the pivot.21. The ladder apparatus of claim 19, wherein: the handle includesoutward and rearward bends; at least a majority of a user-gripping areaof the handle is substantially vertically oriented; and the handle iscapped adjacent both ends to be floatable in water.
 22. The ladderapparatus of claim 19, further comprising: a recess located adjacent alower edge of the mount; and the receptacle of the bracket being locatedon a plane through the rails of the ladder when the bracket is in thestowed position.
 23. The ladder apparatus of claim 19, wherein anelongated insertion axis through a center of the receptacle is parallelto the rotational axis of the mount.
 24. The ladder apparatus of claim19, wherein the bracket further comprises a pair of substantiallyparallel and planar side plates spanning between the mount and thereceptacle.
 25. The ladder apparatus of claim 19, further comprising arod laterally extending through the coupling of the bracket in adirection substantially perpendicular to an insertion direction of thehandle into the receptacle.
 26. A boat ladder apparatus comprising: (a)an elongated handle including a substantially straight lower end segmentand an outwardly bent upper end segment, the handle being tubular with acap at an end thereof; (b) a mounting bracket adapted to be fastened toa substantially horizontal boat surface; (c) a boat ladder comprisinglongitudinally elongated left and right rails with steps spanningbetween the rails, the rails including at least three telescopic andtubular sections, an uppermost of the rails being pivotably attached tothe mounting brackets, and each of the steps including a substantiallyflat portion and a bent portion; (d) a ladder rail-mount surrounding anuppermost one of the rails, the ladder rail-mount having a substantiallycylindrical internal surface; (e) a handle-coupling being attached tothe ladder rail-mount, the handle-coupling having a substantiallycylindrical internal surface; and (f) the handle being removablyinsertable into the handle-coupling in a longitudinal directionsubstantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the rails ofthe ladder.
 27. The ladder apparatus of claim 26, wherein thehandle-coupling is rotatable relative to the rails of the boat ladder.28. The ladder apparatus of claim 26, wherein the outwardly bent upperend segment of the handle extend above and outboard of the boat ladder.29. The ladder apparatus of claim 26, wherein a length of the mountingbrackets is greater than a distance between an upper end of each of therails of the ladder and an upper edge of each of the ladder-rail mounts.30. The ladder apparatus of claim 26, further comprising: a secondelongated handle; a second ladder rail-mount surrounding the otheruppermost of the rails; a second handle-coupling being attached to thesecond ladder rail-mount; and the second handle being removeablyinsertable into the second handle-coupling.